Purpose

The current PSPO which prohibits alcohol-related anti-social behaviour across the Borough is due to expire on the 21st October and a decision is required by Cabinet whether or not to endorse that Full Council renew the PSPO for a further 3 years.

Decision

RESOLVED

That Full Council be recommended to approve

a) the extension for a period of 3 years the Borough wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to prohibit the consumption of alcohol where that consumption contributes to, is linked to or is associated with nuisance or annoyance to members of the public or a section of the public, or to disorder in the borough of Crawley as set out in Appendix A of report HCS/113

b) that fixed penalties imposed for breach of the PSPO (if extended) are maintained at £100.

Reasons for the Recommendations

Council officers consider it necessary to extend the PSPO to prevent an increase in the frequency and/or seriousness of anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol consumption in a public space after it is currently due to expire. Sussex Police make regular use of the PSPO to warn people about breaches and to seize and dispose of alcohol in the town centre in relation to street drinking. The PSPO is used to intervene at an early stage to prevent anti-social behaviour occurring.

The current PSPO has had success in tackling the detrimental effect that street drinking has on the public and businesses in the town centre.

Renewal of the PSPO for a further three years, from 22 October 2026 to 21 October 2029, is therefore recommended to provide the police and council with a tool to tackle problems associated with alcohol-related nuisance, annoyance and disorder.